Page 50 of The Love Destroyers

But Aunt Penny, who looked about as charmed by me as if I were a sewer rat, brightens instantly.

“I think we’re getting more of them right now,” she says, tapping her cane for emphasis, “with Leap Day upon us. Friday, right around the corner. Did you know there’s going to be a full moon? The odds of that happening on Leap Day are astronomical. I think that kind of thing draws in more statistically unlikely happenings.”

I watch with amusement as Chuck opens his mouth in wonder.

“Goodness. I didn’t know. I lost my wedding ring this morning, after I finally admitted to myself my marriage was over. I wonder if that’s related.”

Turning to me, he asks, “You think this is why Dahlia hit you over the head with that paperweight?”

“No,” I say bluntly. But I can’t deny that my mind darts to Emma’s Honey Do request. What are the odds of that happening? Or of us finding Shadow within the walls of Smith House?

Hell, what are the odds of me deciding to take on karma for Emma and getting a paperweight to the head?

I swallow, trying to stuff that bullshit down. I meant what I said. I’ve never believed in signs or fate. Because good people face ruin and death as often as bad ones.

He scrunches his mouth to the side. “Darned if I know.”

Aunt Penny glances pointedly at Sophie, as if she’s hoping her niece will spontaneously toss her own diamond ring.

When she doesn’t, Aunt Penny pouts but turns back to Chuck. “Nobody believes me, but the approach of the full moon Leap Day is making everyone act screwy. My grandson who doesn’t drink came home swaying and slurring last night. You tell me that’s not a sign of something. I’m telling you, we’re all going to be seeing strange things unfold.”

Sophie coughs to cover her reaction. “We’ve got it, Aunt Penny. We’ll all keep our eyes open for signs.”

Suddenly, this feels like one. These women have had a shit morning, and if Aunt Penny has a reason for disliking this Jonah character, Sophie’s in for it. This day is probably unredeemable—the feeling in my head guarantees it—but we can do something to help them and make their day better.

“Would you ladies like some spicy chicken sandwiches?”

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

EMMA

Conversation with Nicole

Stop trying to convince Seamus to bail on his job.

You and I both know he’s going to be HILARIOUS as Ellie’s assistant.

Like, why didn’t I think of that in the first place?

He shouldn’t do it if he’s sick.

Oh, he’ll be fine.

Guess what?

I special-ordered Jeffrey a cactus from Ellie. Get it?

It’s like the one you threw at his head. He’ll think she’s taunting him.

You get it, right?

How’d you know about the cactus?

I know everything.

You want them to come, don’t you? What if he gets pissed off and refuses?

Walking a fine line is what I do best.

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